Cover In the recent hit series ‘Emerald Hill’ the rising star delivers a chilling performance as the troubled antagonist Zhang An Na (Photo: RY Photography)
In the recent hit series ‘Emerald Hill’ the rising star delivers a chilling performance as the troubled antagonist Zhang An Na (Photo: RY Photography)
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In the recent hit series ‘Emerald Hill’, the rising star delivers a chilling performance as the troubled antagonist Zhang An Na. The charismatic actress reveals the emotional challenges of playing the villainous role, leaning on her fellow co-stars for help and more
It has been 17 years since Singapore actress Lin Meijiao captivated audiences as the formidable Lin Guihua in the iconic series The Little Nyonya. This year, Lin’s daughter Chantalle Ng steps into the spotlight and into her mother’s villainous legacy, playing the main antagonist Zhang An Na in the latest Singaporean hit television series, Emerald Hill.
Zhang An Na is a character who has left viewers reeling even after the show concluded on April 21. As the unhinged, deeply troubled granddaughter of the wealthy Zhang family, she is regarded as a bringer of misfortune and raised away from her birth family, only to return with a temperament that quickly unsettles the household.
As the series unfolds, Zhang’s actions become increasingly erratic and malicious, with her maniacal laugh in the final episode drawing viral comparisons to the infamous Annabelle doll from the namesake horror movie. Her unpredictable energy, marked by intense stares and unsettling giggles, had made Ng’s character one of the most memorable figures in the series.
In case you missed it: Inside Emerald Hill, the neighbourhood at the heart of ‘The Little Nyonya’ spinoff
Off screen, the Emerald Hill star is nothing like her on-screen persona. Instead, Ng is known for her bubbly personality and infectious energy—a stark contrast from her character’s dark aura. Taking on the role of Zhang was a significant step in Ng’s career. As she was feeling stuck in her career, she was elated to take on the role, looking at it as an opportunity to “showcase a side [of me] that the audiences never had a chance to see”.
Above Chantalle Ng, star of ‘Emerald Hill’
Chantalle Ng, star of ‘Emerald Hill’
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To prepare for Zhang’s complex character, Ng delved deep into the character’s emotional world. Ng explains how she imagined a life without her mother. “The one who showered me with unconditional love, flaws and all. And in its place, I pictured a life under a parent whose love had to be earned,” she adds.
The mindset of carrying the belief that she was unworthy of love proved to be one of the most challenging aspects of the role, requiring her to inhabit a darkness far removed from her own personality.
For her, the process was both exhilarating and draining. While Ng was excited about the role, she quickly learnt the mental strain it would have on her. “I thought I was ready but in all honesty, I was not,” she admits. Over the course of filming, the role started to weigh heavily on her, pulling her into a dark place.
Above Behind the scenes of ‘Emerald Hill’
Behind the scenes of ‘Emerald Hill’
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This prompted her to reach out for support. “I’m so grateful for the friends who became my guiding lights through that period,” she shares, crediting her co-star Tasha Low and executive producer Loh Woon Woon for helping her navigate these challenges.
“Their steady support was a beacon when I needed it the most.”
Along with getting help from her loved ones, she also looked to exercise to help her mental health. “After filming, I’d often go for a run, as it became my passageway between reel and real,” she says, highlighting the importance of eating well and surrounding herself with good people.
For Ng, stepping into her mother’s formidable shoes has been both a professional milestone and a deeply personal journey. In an interview with Tatler Singapore, the rising star shares her experiences on set, lessons learnt playing Zhang and what’s next for her.
Above Ng plays Zhang An Na in ‘Emerald Hill’
Ng plays Zhang An Na in ‘Emerald Hill’
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Why did you decide to venture into the entertainment industry?
I grew up watching my mother on TV. She’s my biggest role model and I’ve always been so proud of her. I wanted to step onto the screen myself and continue the path she’s paved.
What was the dynamic like between you, Ferlyn Wong and Tasha Low both on and off the Emerald Hill set?
Tasha and I couldn’t help but giggle whenever we had scenes together—I even had to beg her to leave the set just so I could finish a take without bursting into laughter. Ferlyn, on the other hand, was our steady anchor. She grounded us and really helped us dive into character.
How did your interactions with Peranakan experts influence your performance?
We had the opportunity to work with Peranakan experts during the filming of the show. They taught me how to walk, talk and even cook like a true Peranakan. I’m so grateful for their guidance and for the glimpse they gave me into what life was like in that era.
Above Ng and her mother, Lin Meijiao, a veteran actress in Singapore
Ng and her mother, Lin Meijiao, a veteran actress in Singapore
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Has playing An Na changed your perspective on villainous characters or the way you approach roles in general?
Definitely. There’s a Chinese saying ‘可恨之人必有可悲之处’ which means behind every villain is a broken person craving love. Playing Anna was such a ride, digging into her fears and insecurities, then presenting her as someone so calculated and fearless. I loved the complexity of the role. Anna was also very counterintuitive. As an actress, you're often taught that being well-liked is the ultimate goal. But this time, that belief was shattered. I realised that my craft could speak louder than likeability. This journey has been humbling, reflective and full of growth.
The series quickly became a hit. Why do you think the show resonated so strongly with viewers?
There’s a deep nostalgia to this project and every single person on the production gave it their all to bring that legacy to life. And to me, a drama may start and end, but the legacy of Yamamoto Yueniang is #forever.
What motivates you to keep going?
Something in me still wants to keep going. Because I love this craft deeply. Because I love the people who make it all worth it.
Above While Ng was excited about the role, she quickly learnt the mental strain it would have on her
Above To prepare for Zhang’s complex character, Ng delved deep into the character’s emotional world
While Ng was excited about the role, she quickly learnt the mental strain it would have on her
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If you could switch roles with any character on Emerald Hill, who would it be and why?
When I auditioned for Anna, Anya, and Xinniang, I was asked if there was any role I especially wanted—or didn’t want. I said I didn’t think I could portray Anya. Her backstory is so heavy—forced into prostitution, dealt a life of cruelty by fate. But if I ever get the chance again, I’d love to challenge that role. To prove to myself that if I allow myself to be vulnerable enough, I can step into anyone’s world.
What’s next?
My new drama is The Gift Of Time. I’m acting alongside Xie Shao Guang—his first show after leaving the industry 16 years ago. Being cast as his daughter and being able to work with him feels like a dream. I’ve also been given another once-in-a-lifetime opportunity on the variety side—something I can’t reveal just yet, but it’s been keeping me up at night with excitement.
Outside of work, what’s next for me is to look at the world with starry eyes and to love every moment I’m given on this earth, especially with the amazing people around me.
Credits
Images: RY Photography
Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.
